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Kaiser permanente San Rafael MOB

Location

San Rafael, CA


Project Type

Healthcare

Pieces Installed

190

Design Task

The ACS team worked with KP leadership and the San Francisco offices of the architecture and interior design firm for almost 4 years on this 150,000 sq/ft MOB in San Rafael, CA.

 

Featuring a dynamic 190-piece artwork collection, the artwork experience begins before visitors enter the MOB, as they first encounter a 15’ x 20’ metal sculpture adorning the parking garage entrance. Commissioned from a Southern CA artist team, this beautiful piece, featuring local plants from the surrounding area, can be seen from the street as well as from the entrance to the building.

 

Once inside the building, a 350lb suspended sculpture, visible from all three floors, undulates gently in the airflow. The angular cut acrylic pieces reflect a multitude of colors and dazzling light. ACS met with structural engineers throughout the project phases to ensure structural integrity and seismic goals were met, as the sculpture hangs from a skylight and is 42' long. ACS also designed 3 backlit 200-400lb panels that served as educational elements as well as positive distractions in the space. Featuring imagery of plants that heal, the light panels were accompanied by a plaque providing information about the plants and their specific healing properties. 

 

The collection also incorporates artwork from 24 regional artists including key commissions such as two wooden wall sculptures, an acrylic wall sculpture, two metal wall sculptures and a painted eggshell display, creating a gallery experience as visitors walk through the space. In addition, the pediatric waiting area features a custom designed, Lego - inspired panel welcoming patients to the space. The unique and creative piece helped solve an acoustic challenge as well as providing a textural, colorful element with a whimsical feel.

 

Finally, topping off this wonderful and collaborative project, ten wall coverings, co-produced with the interiors team, were featured behind reception areas, in the cafe, and in the physical therapy gym. The breadth of art and artists throughout the space helps with wayfinding and makes this important project a true example of an uplifting and inspiring healthcare space, serving providers, families and patients for years to come.

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